Death of Richard de Clare (Strongbow)
Richard de Clare (Strongbow), the powerful Norman leader who spearheaded the invasion of Ireland, lies dying in his chamber at Kilkenny Castle. The room is filled with anxious Norman knights and clerg
Setting
Kilkenny Castle, in the lord's private chamber. The room is dimly lit, with heavy stone walls and a high ceiling. A large bed dominates the space, surrounded by Norman knights and clergy.
Characters
Richard de Clare (Strongbow)
primary
A gaunt, middle-aged Norman lord with sharp features and a prominent nose. His once-powerful frame is now weakened by illness, his skin pale and clammy. His short, graying hair is matted with sweat, and his piercing blue eyes, though dimmed, still hold a commanding presence.
Norman Knight
secondary
A battle-hardened Norman knight in his late 30s, standing at 5'10" with a muscular build from years of combat. His face bears several faded scars, and his sun-weathered skin speaks of many campaigns. His dark brown hair is cropped short in the Norman style, and his piercing blue eyes show both fatigue and vigilance.
Irish Priest
secondary
A middle-aged man of slender build with a deeply lined face, sunken cheeks, and piercing blue eyes that reflect years of hardship and devotion. His thin lips are often pressed together in solemnity, and his graying hair is cropped short in the tonsure style of the Celtic clergy.
Squire
background
A youth of about 16 years with a lean but wiry build, his fair hair cropped short in Norman fashion. His face bears the remnants of adolescent acne, and his wide blue eyes betray his youth. His hands, though calloused from training, tremble slightly as they grip the sword.
Dialog
Richard de Clare (Strongbow)
By my right... Leinster passes to... my daughter... Isabelle. The Irish... will contest this.
Norman Knight
Par Dieu, sire. Your men hold the castles. We'll keep your line secure.
Irish Priest
In nomine Patris... et Filii... et Spiritus Sancti...
Richard de Clare (Strongbow)
Enough... priest. Save your... Latin. Does your Dia... rejoice... at this?
Irish Priest
Dia judges all men equally, Norman. Even kings.
Norman Knight
Mind your tongue, cleric! The Lord Marshal's deathbed is no place for your... Irish wisdom.
Richard de Clare (Strongbow)
Let him... speak. Strongbow's line... will endure... long after... his prayers.